About NARM

Developmental and Relational Trauma

Developmental trauma, in contrast to shock trauma, is associated with the chronic lack of fulfillment of core emotional needs—such as safety, connection, autonomy, and belonging—during early childhood. Relational trauma, on the other hand, refers to repeated experiences of disrupted attachment, emotional neglect, lack of secure bonding, or unpredictable interactions with caregivers. These experiences impair the individual’s capacity to form stable and healthy interpersonal relationships.

Foundations of the NARM Model

The NeuroAffective Relational Model™ (NARM) is a modern therapeutic approach developed by Dr. Laurence Heller, designed to treat developmental and relational trauma, most commonly manifesting as Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (cPTSD). This developmentally-oriented, neurobiologically informed model has evolved from earlier psychotherapeutic traditions, including psychodynamic therapy, attachment theory, Gestalt therapy, and various somatic psychotherapy approaches.

The aim of NARM therapy is to transform maladaptive identity patterns and relational schemas that were shaped by early childhood experiences.

The Role of the NARM Therapist

A therapist working within the NARM framework supports the client in recognizing and transforming deeply rooted survival strategies embedded in both the body and psyche. These strategies developed as ways to cope with traumatic conditions and later formed the foundation of identity patterns—core identifications linked to unmet emotional needs.

Key areas of intervention include:

  • Identifying survival strategies that may currently limit authentic functioning;
  • Supporting emotional self-regulation without the need to relive traumatic memories;
  • Enhancing self-awareness and helping to restore connection with the body, emotions, and one’s authentic self.

The therapeutic relationship in NARM serves as a core healing space. It is based on presence, attuned awareness, and supportive engagement from the therapist—without judgment, interpretation, or attempts to “fix” the client.

Benefits of NARM Therapy

Working with deep relational patterns and the sense of self leads to long-term transformation that goes beyond symptom relief (such as reducing anxiety, depression, or PTSD symptoms). The model also eliminates the need for detailed retelling of traumatic events, minimizing the risk of retraumatization. Moreover, it is a non-pathologizing approach, making it possible to address deeply rooted shame and guilt often experienced by individuals with complex trauma histories.

NARM honors the interconnectedness of body, emotions, mind, and relationships, enabling a comprehensive healing process. Therapy integrates both top-down (from cognitive awareness through emotions to bodily sensations) and bottom-up (from body to mind) processing. However, it is not a cathartic approach.

Clients participating in NARM therapy develop greater awareness of their own emotional and behavioral patterns and gain skills in self-regulation in daily life. Transformation of identity and attachment patterns supports the development of authentic and fulfilling relationships.